The prestigious 2026 The Points Guy Awards have revealed the finest airline cabins currently operating across the United States and internationally, with JetBlue and Delta Air Lines securing top domestic honours. Now in its eighth year, the awards programme meticulously evaluates travel experiences based on first-hand testing and deep industry expertise.
JetBlue Economy Cabin Takes Top Domestic Prize
JetBlue's economy class offering has been declared the best among US carriers, praised for providing superior comfort and amenities often absent in standard coach travel. The cabin features a generous seat pitch of 32 to 34 inches, significantly exceeding the domestic average of 30 to 31 inches, alongside seats that are 18 inches wide compared to an industry norm of approximately 17 inches.
Passengers benefit from seatback entertainment screens across most of the fleet, a rarity in contemporary economy class, and enjoy complimentary gate-to-gate wifi without needing to enrol in the airline's loyalty programme. JetBlue's transcontinental network, serviced by Airbus aircraft, connects major cities including New York to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, San Diego, and Las Vegas, with fares typically ranging from $180 to $350.
Delta One Business Class Earns High Praise
Delta Air Lines claimed the gold award for the best US business class cabin with its Delta One product. Available on aircraft such as the Airbus A350-900, Airbus A330-900neo, and select Boeing 767-400ERs, the experience was described as "wonderful" by The Points Guy team.
The cabin features lie-flat seats with privacy doors, luxury bedding from the Italian fashion house Missoni, and premium amenity kits. "Stylish finishes and great menus further elevate the Delta One experience," noted the awards panel. Delta also triumphed in the best new US airline lounge category, with its Delta One Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport receiving top accolades.
International and Niche Category Winners
The awards also celebrated excellence beyond US borders. Qatar Airways' Qsuite was named best international business class, while Air France La Premiere took the title for best international first class. Emirates' premium economy cabin was honoured as the best in its category globally.
For cruise travel, MSC World America was declared the best new ocean ship, Ponant Explorations won best expedition cruise line, and Royal Caribbean was recognised as the best overall cruise line for families. In the financial category, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card was named travel rewards credit card of the year, and the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card received the hotel credit card of the year award.
Rigorous Evaluation Process
Brian Kelly, Founder of The Points Guy, emphasised the rigorous methodology behind the awards. "Travel demand is surging, but with rising costs and credit card annual fees, travelers are being more intentional than ever about where they find value," he stated. "The TPG Awards are always rooted in real-world experience – our team uses every card, explores every perk, visits every lounge, and stays at every property. These awards recognise the brands that are truly elevating travel and helping consumers get more from their points, miles, and dollars."
The organisation confirmed that all nominees were assessed based on firsthand experience, industry expertise, and their ability to deliver genuine value to modern travellers, honouring both established leaders and innovative newcomers shaping the future of the industry.
